Kumar Sangakkara

Kumar Sangakkara became one of Sri Lanka's most influential players, a highly talented left-handed strokemaker and wicketkeeper.

indiaUpdated: Oct 23, 2006 18:05 IST

PTI

Date of Birth: 27 October 1977, Matale

Test Debut: Against South Africa at Galle in 2000/01

ODI Debut: Against Pakistan at Galle in 2000/01

Bats: Left Hand Bat

Other: Wicket-Keeper

Bowls: Right Arm Off Break

Kumar Sangakkara,tipped as future captain of the island nation,is one of Sri Lanka's most influential players, a highly talented left-handed strokemaker and wicketkeeper.

Sangakarra also bowls useful off spin. He came to international cricket in July 2000 and has played over 100 one-dayers since then. Burdening him with the exhausting dual responsibility of batting at No. 3 and keeping wicket has been the source of widespread debate and the selectors relieved him of the gloves in one-day cricket after the 2003 World Cup. The change increased his productivity as a batsman but left the team unbalanced and he was handed back the wicketkeeping during Australia's tour in 2003-04.

Tall and slim, he is an elegant driver of the ball and at his best is a joy to watch.

He made his one-day debut in the Singer Triangular Tournament against Pakistan at Galle International Stadium. Throughout the series he batted excellently and kept wickets well. He is now well on his way to establishing himself as a top batsman. He has a brilliant double century, 230 to his credit.